Expo 2020
Performance Based Design
Maximal Energy Minimal Space
Guests' Experience/ Business Separation
Minimal Material Custom Ramp
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TL;DR
Pushing Boundaries of Architectural Innovation: Unveiling the envisioned Dubai EXPO 2020 Pavilion Situated in the vibrant city of Dubai, the Dubai EXPO 2020 Pavilion stands as a remarkable example of performative-based architecture. Drawing inspiration from its surrounding desert landscape and driven by multi-objective optimization, this pavilion combines distinctive design elements, novel materials, and energy-efficient features to create a unique and barrier-free visitor experience. The architectural style of the pavilion is characterized by its performative nature, where the structure, envelope, circulation, materials, and energy efficiency are all optimized to achieve multiple objectives. The pavilion showcases a forward-thinking approach, employing state-of-the-art technologies and materials for both its external and internal load-bearing structures, exhibition areas, and envelope. As visitors enter the pavilion, they are welcomed into a spacious lobby, setting the stage for an immersive experience. The interior spaces are carefully planned to accommodate both business guests and visitors, with separate flow paths ensuring a smooth and efficient circulation. Agent-based simulations were utilized to simulate and adjust the circulation planning, resulting in a well-defined path for both visitor and business flows. The visitor path takes guests on an exciting journey through the pavilion. After passing through the entrance and lobby, visitors are guided to the first exhibition area located above the meeting room. From there, a sloped path leads to a spiral ramp, offering breathtaking views and access to a balcony that overlooks the pavilion and its surroundings. The ramp continues along a mesmerizing irregular helix-shaped design, with seating areas strategically placed to provide resting spots and optimal views of the stage. Along the way, visitors encounter unique design elements, including a custom interlacing timber support structure for the spiral ramp and a minimal surfaced textile cone in the center, which serves as a projection surface for captivating visuals. The pavilion's exterior features an optimized structural design with a glulam (glued laminated timber) waffle structure, ensuring both strength and aesthetic appeal. The envelope is constructed using three-layered ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) film cushions integrated with flexible photovoltaic cells, allowing for optimal performance and energy generation. The use of sustainable and patinating materials, such as wood, recycled materials, mineral materials, and biomaterials, maintains a warm and inviting character throughout the pavilion. Sustainability is a core aspect of the Dubai EXPO 2020 Pavilion. The envelope and structure have been meticulously designed to maximize energy gain through photovoltaic cells, while minimizing the need for cooling and HVAC systems. The optimization process took into account the hot arid climate of Dubai, ensuring a harmonious experience for visitors while considering energy efficiency and appropriate heights. To enhance air quality and ventilation, a separate solution for air ducts was meticulously calculated. This calculation led to a comprehensive air exchange system, which takes into account the expected peak number of visitors. By carefully balancing airflow, the pavilion ensures a continuous supply of fresh air while maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment. The incorporation of renewable energy sources not only supports the pavilion's environmental goals but also highlights the innovative and forward-looking nature of the design. In terms of dimensions, the pavilion spans 50 meters in width, 46 meters in length, and stands at a height of 16.8 meters. With a floor area of 2,100 square meters and an air volume of approximately 12,000 cubic meters, the pavilion offers ample space for exhibitions, interactions, and immersive visitor experience. Surrounded by other pavilions in the desert environment of Dubai, the pavilion's location is influenced by the city's hot arid climate and extreme heat conditions. While the main wind directions were partially neglected in the design process, careful attention was given to the sun study to optimize the pavilion's positioning. The entrance and exit areas occupy the front and right sides, respectively, while the top platform provides a panoramic exterior view to the left. The Dubai EXPO 2020 Pavilion stands as a testament to innovative design, sustainable practices, and an immersive visitor experience. By integrating advanced technologies, optimized structures, and thoughtful circulation planning, this pavilion creates a distinct presence within the EXPO 2020 site, inviting visitors to explore its exhibitions, enjoy breathtaking views, and engage with the vibrant atmosphere of Dubai.
Emphasis
Visitor Flow
Optimized Visitor Flow
performance oriented organisation
Exiting Experience For Guests
Undisturbed Business Meetings
Uninterrupted Service Provision
​Envelope
Optimized Envelope
Maximal Energy Gain
Minimal Space
Providing comfortable Interior Space
Utilizing the entire Volume, providing most efficient Cooling-/HAVAC- situation.
Orienting PV- Cells to regionally most meaningful sun- angles
Structure
Optimized Structure
Exterior
Minimal Material Gluelam Waffling
Providing adequate strength stabilizing form and connections
Interior
Custom Ramp Support System
Providing functional bending active structure
Minimizing use of material and energy
Material/ Skin Performance
Optimized Material/ Skin Performance
Exterior
ETFE/PV- Cushions
Fabric Light Wells
Interior
​Minimal Sufaced Textile Cone
Wall Textile Intallations